The Regional Committee,
Taking note of the appearance of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), a relatively new and highly fatal disease caused by lymphadenopathy-associated virus/human T-lymphotropic virus type III (LAV/HTLV-III), against which no effective treatment as yet exists;
Considering that to date some 14 000 AIDS cases have been reported on a global level, including 138 cases in the Western Pacific Region;
Expressing its concern about the recent appearance of the disease in some countries of the Region;
Recognizing that in due course the disease may be widespread and become a serious public health problem in the Region;
Considering the need to intensify studies and research in order to know more about AIDS;
- URGES Member States:
- (1) to provide appropriate information and health education to the public concerning the disease known as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), in particular the mode of transmission and methods of prevention;
- (2) to seek the cooperation of the media in conveying unemotive and informed advice to the community;
- (3) to initiate surveillance and reporting of the disease;
- (4) where needed, to set up counseling services for those found to be antibody positive for LAV/HTLV-III virus;
- REQUESTS the Regional Director:
- (1) to facilitate the exchange of information, in particular on the prevention, diagnosis and case management of LAV/HTLV-III infection;
- (2) to cooperate in the development of laboratory capability for the diagnosis of LAV/HTLV-III infection;
- (3) to collaborate with Member States in the establishment of collaborating centres which will serve as reference laboratories, provide training and conduct research;
- (4) to promote cooperation between Member States in the transfer of information and technology related to the prevention, diagnosis and case management of LAV/HTLV-III infection;
- (5) to encourage research into the various aspects of LAV/HTLV-III infection, including the development of simple, accurate and inexpensive diagnostic procedures and of vaccine;
- (6) to mobilize extrabudgetary resources and to increase the allocation of such resources to the programme for the prevention and control of LAV/HTLV-III infection;
- (7) to transmit this resolution to the Director-General and to coordinate the regional activities with the relevant activities at global level.